One Pot Smothered Pork Chops Recipe

 There’s just something irresistible about tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its best – hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. What makes this dish even better is that you can whip it up in just one pot. That means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying every savory bite! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable smothered pork chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about ¾-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if available)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

Optional Side Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for serving
• Seasonal vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures they’ll have delicious flavor right from the start.

Step 2 – Sear the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook them all the way through at this stage – just get a nice crust. Once seared, remove them from the pot and set them aside.

Step 3 – Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the same pot, stirring occasionally as they soften and become golden (about 5–7 minutes). Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4 – Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the broth while whisking or stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Once the mixture is smooth and thickened, stir in the heavy cream, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and an extra pinch of salt and pepper, if needed. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5 – Return the Pork Chops

Nestle the seared pork chops back into the pot, spooning some of that savory sauce over the top. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover. Allow the chops to cook for 15–20 minutes, depending on their thickness, until they’re tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Stir the sauce occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 6 – Garnish and Serve

Once cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the pork chops for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot alongside creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice to soak up that luscious sauce.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Pork Chops – Bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier, but boneless ones work just as well if that’s what you have on hand. Be sure they’re not too thin, as they may overcook quickly.
2. Don’t Skip the Sear – A good sear locks in flavor and creates a beautiful caramelization on your pork chops. It’s worth the extra few minutes!
3. Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it down a little longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of broth or cream.
4. Taste as You Go – Seasoning is key. Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Swap flour for almond flour or xanthan gum to thicken the sauce, and pair with cauliflower mash.
• Herbed Delight: Add fresh rosemary or oregano along with the thyme for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Add Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce before adding the pork chops back in.

Serving Suggestions

These smothered pork chops pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up that incredible sauce. Add a side of roasted green beans or glazed carrots for balance, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal right on your dinner table. For the ultimate indulgence, serve with thick slices of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a true lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. With minimal dishes to clean up and a sauce that’s so good you’ll want to eat it with a spoon, it’s a must-try! Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Give it a go, and watch it become a family favorite!